The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Kenneth W. Wheeler (MCSN: 2303494), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Crew Chief with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron TWO HUNDRED SIXTY-TWO (HMM-262), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 May 1969. Corporal Wheeler launched aboard the second aircraft in the fourth section of a flight of eight CH-46 transport helicopters assigned to support the First Battalion, Ninth Marines during an assault landing into Landing Zone ERSKINE in Quang Tri Province. After disembarking the initial load of Marines and returning to the area with a second element of the assault force, Corporal Wheeler’s aircraft came under intense hostile fire and crashed a few feet from the landing zone. When the helicopter slid off the crest of the hill and rolled over, a fire ignited in the rear of the aircraft near the fuel tanks. With complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Wheeler, after helping a crew member through a window immediately proceeded to the rear of the helicopter and, with the aid of one of his aerial gunners, commenced assisting the twelve Marines out of the aircraft through the rear hatch. After six men were outside the helicopter, a series of secondary explosions completely destroyed the aircraft, mortally injuring Corporal Wheeler and the other Marines inside. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of six Marines who were trapped inside the helicopter. By his courage, sincere concern for his fellowmen and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Wheeler upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.